How To Remedy Bacterial Wilt And Pests In Soil?

Question

We have a 4×8 raised bed, and lost our cucumbers to bacterial wilt the last 2 years (though I didn’t Know what it was last year). We also have terrible ants (a farmer friend thought our primary problem may even be the ants). Is there some way to remedy the wily and ants in the hopes of having a successful garden next year?

Answer 1

I would say that bacterial issues would be spot on. Ants don't, usually, cause that many problems on their own but can be an indicator of other insect pests. Aphids are a common reason for seeing lots of ants around.

Many broad spectrum fungicides can help restore the soil, but I would make sure to solarize the bed, as well.

Here is an article that will help you with solarization:

https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/garden-how-to/projects/how-to-solarize-garden-beds-to-eliminate-garden-pests-in-the-soil.htm

Here is an article to help you with fungicide use:

https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/garden-how-to/info/using-fungicides-in-garden.htm